“Australia has a long and proud history of being generous, outward facing and supporting those in need around the world,” Mr Tinkler said.

“Yet in recent years, successive, drastic and unprecedented cuts of more than $11 billion to our foreign aid budget has diminished our global standing and influence significantly.

“It is in our national interest for whomever forms government after the 2019 election to commit to the urgent task of rebuilding our aid program.

“And this must start in our region. We are particularly pleased to see Labor’s commitment to putting the Pacific front and centre of Australia’s foreign policy.

“The Pacific Islands are our friends and neighbours, yet outcomes for children remain dire. One in two children in Papua New Guinea are stunted and generations of children are missing out on a quality education. We must work with Pacific islanders to empower their communities and help to realise their significant potential.”

For media inquiries contact Alex Sampson on 0429 943 027

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